Masonry Magazine February 1993 Page. 54
Construction cycle fluctuations predict the final result. You must keep track," he said. Improvements in hardware and software, local networks, and the ability to connect accounting, estimating, and other packages make such improvements possible, he said.
There are still a few estimators doing it manually, according to Melinda Post of Pinnacle Technology. But costs are down and "estimating is really hot," she said. Before 1983, most estimating systems were added on to the accounting systems; the estimator entered the measurements and the computer did the extensions. The first automated quantity digitizers were offered in 1983-4. By 1988, automated bid closing became available; this feature helps the contractor analyze and find the best bid solution. Post said that integrating estimating with CAD is a long way off. She advised contractors to look for expandability, connectivity and compatibility.
Wayne Dorn of Altus Management discussed project management software, noting that it's important for the contractor to be able to trace a project from the estimate stage to completion. A project management system should include cost control, performance measurement, and risk analysis, he said.
CIWF Elects
Image and retention will be top priorities for the Construction Industry Workforce Foundation (CIWF) in the next year according to 1993 CIWF president Gary B. Warner, vice president of Pizzagalli Construction in South Burlington, Vermont, representing the Associated General Contractors of America on the board.
Other 1993 officers include William Wakefield of FMC Corporation in Princeton, New Jersey, representing the Business Roundtable as vice president; Denise Norberg, of Gust A. Norberg and Son, Chicago, representing the National Association of Women in Construction, as treasurer; and M.R. Sullivan, Jr. of Sullivan Mechanical Contractors in Shenandoah. Virginia, representing the Associated Builders and Contractors.
Aluminum
BrickStop Paver Retaining System
"L" Shape Edging Prevents Lateral Movement
• Made of recycled aluminum
• Optional dual staking system
• One piece for straight and/or curved patterns
• Convenient 8'4" usable lengths (no overlap-loss at joints)
• 90° angles with no cutting
• Will not warp in heat, crack in cold, rot or rust
Reversible model installation shown
BrickStop Corporation
Durham, N.H., U.S.A. (603) 868-3595 1-800-565-2599 USA & CANADA
Toronto, Ontario, Canada (416) 739-0355 Visit us at booth 440
Equipment Co. Inc.
SKY TRAK
USED
SKYTRAK FORK-
LIFT SPECIALISTS
THE MASON'S MACHINE
Sales Service Rentals
• Parts Used Parts Rental Purchase
Anywhere in the USA
JACKIE SPARKS
Shreveport, LA (318) 221-5197
Take your heart to court.
Or on a bike ride. Or out for a jog. Whatever your sport, vigorous exercise can help keep your heart healthy.
American Heart Association
WERE FIGHTING FOR YOUR LIFE
54 MASONRY-JANUARY/FEBRUARY, 1993